Teyana Taylor received the Icon of the Year award at the 2026 BET Awards on Sunday, June 28, at the Peacock Theatre in Los Angeles.
Janet Jackson presented the honour to the 35-year-old singer, actor, director and choreographer, according to People.
The ceremony, hosted by Druski, aired live from Los Angeles and recognised Taylor’s work across music, film, fashion and culture.
Taylor became emotional during her acceptance speech and said she had worked for 20 years to earn the title. She said she was accepting the award with gratitude, not arrogance, and promised to continue earning it.
Taylor also spoke about her work as an actress, director, choreographer and entrepreneur. She said legacy should include helping others stand beside you.
Taylor thanked her parents and dedicated the award to her daughters, Iman “Junie” Tayla, 10, and Rue Rose, 5, whom she shares with former NBA player Iman Shumpert.
The recognition added another milestone to Taylor’s BET Awards. She had previously won two trophies for Video Director of the Year.
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BET announced Taylor as the 2026 Icon of the Year recipient on June 9 before the live ceremony.
